The warm old-fashioned is perfect for really chilly days when a cold drink just won't do. It's the same great cocktail as the classic old-fashioned, it's simply topped off with a little warm water.

This recipe came from Maker's Mark and the bourbon—with its distinct wheat profile—is a nice choice for a warm drink. Accenting it with the customary old-fashioned ingredients like a bitters-soaked sugar cube, orange, and cherry is a really nice touch. And, as soon as that hot water hits the mix, the flavors open up, melt together, and leave you with a soothing beverage that rivals any hot toddy.

The amount of hot water is merely a suggestion. Start small and add more if you like. The goal is to gently warm the cocktail's base, not necessarily to fill the glass.

The water should not be boiling hot. The average temperature a teapot produces is perfect for this drink.

Recipe Variation

While Maker's Mark is the recommended bourbon, nearly any whiskey (bourbon or another style) will work just fine in the warm old-fashioned. You may even enjoy it better with a high-proof, really robust whiskey like Knob Creek, Bulleit, or any of the fantastic rye whiskeys available.

How Strong Is a Warm Old-Fashioned?

Maker's Mark is bottled at a flavorful 45 percent ABV (90 proof), so this is not going to be a light drink. If you pour a full 2 ounces of water, the whiskey is knocked down to a pleasant 22 percent ABV (44 proof). That's a comfortable range for a short, casual sipper and will retain a nice whiskey flavor.